§ 36. Mr. Bruceasked the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food if he has any proposals for raising farm incomes in 1986–87; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. GummerFarm incomes will be one of a number of factors to be taken into account when decisions are taken on the European Commission's proposals for prices and other measures for the 1986–87 year. These proposals will also affect consumers and taxpayers; and the Government are very conscious of the need to secure a better balance in the markets for commodities in surplus and to ensure that the financial guideline is respected.
§ 43. Mr. Hardyasked the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food what was the average increase in the net income of farmers in 1984–85; and by what proportion he expects this income to rise in 1985–86.
§ Mr. GummerDetails of farming income are given at table 23 of the "Annual Review of Agriculture 1985" White Paper (Cmd. 9423) which shows that farming income rose from £1,502 million in 1983 to £1,826 million in 1984. It is expected that income in 1985 will be at well below the record level achieved in 1984. A forecast will be published in the forthcoming annual review White Paper.